September 24, 2025

In Memory of Marcus Werner

Marcus Werner, host of “Lokalzeit OWL” on WDR, has died. The gay moderator, journalist, and author died at 51 after a serious illness, according to WDR. “He leaves not only a large gap at WDR, but also a legacy filled with optimism and journalistic passion.” Fact-based, with a twinkle in his eye, and motivating, Werner moderated the “Lokalzeit OWL” for more than 15 years.

In addition, he appeared on camera for various productions and networks, was a successful novelist and non-fiction author, and wrote as a columnist for WirtschaftsWoche about “the everyday trivialities in business that deserve to be lovingly magnified,” as WDR further noted.

Werner is survived by his husband, Christian Schlesiger, who also works as a journalist.

Marcy Ellerton
Marcy Ellerton
My name is Marcy Ellerton, and I’ve been telling stories since I could hold a pen. As a queer journalist based in Minneapolis, I cover everything from grassroots activism to the everyday moments that make our community shine. When I’m not chasing a story, you’ll probably find me in a coffee shop, scribbling notes in a well-worn notebook and eavesdropping just enough to catch the next lead.